The English brand 'Austin' made its debut in 1959 with the ‘Healey 3000’ at the New York Motor Show. The 'Big Healey' is the successor to the ‘100-6’ series that had already appeared in 1956.

Despite the name change, the changes were fairly minor, and the wheelbase and bodywork of the ‘100-6’ were retained. The real changes were hidden from view... The displacement increased to 2912 cc, the compression was increased and an output of 124 hp was guaranteed by using double HD6 SU carburettors. Furthermore, the model was no longer only available just as a two-seater, but also as a four-seater sports car.

Production, which lasted only two years, was stopped in March 1961 and was succeeded by the ‘3000’ Mark II.
The latter was also immediately available in a two-seater and four-seater version, while the type designation, BN7 and BT7, remained the same as for the Mark I.

The MKII was given a new grille as well as a modified intake manifold with three carburettors. This increased the engine power to 132 hp. Both the series production cars and the rally versions were equipped with these triple carburettors. That turned out to be a good choice, a fact proved by the numerous rally victories!
Production was stopped in 1962 after 5451 units.

“Collection by Vermant” is pleased to offer you this Austin Healey 3000 MKII from 1962. It is a copy of the very popular ‘BT7’ series, equipped with its matching numbers of a 3 litre, powerful 6-cylinder engine with the rare triple carburettors and an output of 132 hp. This power is transmitted to the rear wheels by means of a precisely shifting manual 4-speed gearbox with overdrive.

The car was delivered new to Canada on 30 June 1962. It was produced in “Ivory white” with a black interior. In addition, the ‘3000’ was equipped with numerous options including spoke rims, overdrive, heating, adjustable steering column, laminated glass windscreen, road speed tires, etc.

In 2018 the car made the big crossing to the Netherlands and then came to Belgium at the beginning of this year.

Huge investments have been made in this ‘Big Healey’ over the past few years. The whole engine was overhauled with new cylinders and pistons, crankshaft, bearings, oil pump, etc. The gearbox was also completely overhauled and fitted with new synchronisers, overhauled overdrive, etc.

In addition, the entire electrical installation was replaced with a new wiring harness, electrical components, etc. The wheel housings and the suspension enjoyed a similar upgrade.

Finally, a new coat of paint was applied in ‘Colorado Red’, also an original colour from the Healey range. The chrome work, the rubber parts and the black interior were also completely renewed! And all this was finished with a new black soft top and tonneau cover.

The result is a very nice and smooth driving Healey with perfect fits that is ready again for its 2nd lease of life!

The ‘BT7’ comes with a ‘Heritage trust document’, numerous invoices and a Belgian registration certificate.

More information and pictures: www.collectionbyvermant.be